Fellowship International Relations Personal Statement
- Robert Edinger
- Jul 8, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago

Among most people I know, the value of a subject is assessed solely by its potential to generate income. When I chose to study History, my decision was met with disbelief from relatives and friends who couldn't envision any way to profit from knowledge of the past. Bright students are typically expected to pursue fields like business, medicine, or law; they are not anticipated to choose something seemingly impractical like History.
Therefore, my decision came after careful consideration and some resistance, reflecting, I believe, a true passion for History that is rooted in my identity as a young Chinese individual from Hong Kong.
My enthusiasm for history sparked a keen interest in politics and international relations, particularly China's interactions with the world. As a Hong Kong Chinese, I am more attuned to the subtleties of the Chinese government's behavior than many others who, knowingly or not, will increasingly be influenced by its policies in the future. Hong Kong's people, serving as a window into China, have a potentially crucial role in helping mainland Chinese understand other societies and vice versa, and in pursuing roles that positively impact China's external relations. I am eager to engage in research on the evolving nature of contemporary Sino-US relations and the implications of intra-party political struggles on diplomatic policy direction.
My long-term ambition is to be involved in Hong Kong's administration at a high level and to teach International Relations at major universities as a visiting lecturer. I am particularly fascinated by Sino-US relations and the comparative study of the unification processes of Taiwan and Hong Kong. However, the realization of "One China" faces many challenges ahead, and I wish to prepare myself academically at the University of XXXX, which I consider the world's leading institution for international relations studies. Additionally, I hope to have the honor of having Professor XXXX—a distinguished Sino-US relations expert at the University of XXXX—as my MPhil thesis advisor, as my research interests align with her expertise.
Throughout my academic career, I have been educated in English. Every course I took at CUHK was conducted in English, and I am fully prepared and eager for a complete immersion experience. To prepare for postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford, I chose courses aimed at postgraduate students pursuing the M.A. in Comparative Public History at CUHK. I also studied Sociology, Government, and Public Administration, earning an 'A' grade in each and graduating in the top 5% of students. Studying vigorously in various related disciplines has broadened my understanding and critical perspective, enabling me to comprehend complex issues from multiple viewpoints.
I was a member of the Social Service Club at my secondary school, where we visited the elderly and organized activities for them. I also served as Head Librarian, leading a team to restructure the system into a more user-friendly one. Learning the basics of librarianship has been invaluable, especially for my research using both primary and secondary sources.
After entering university, I was invited back to my secondary school to assist as a teacher, helping first-year students with their homework and revision. I also counseled students with personal or academic anxieties. Having recently experienced similar emotions myself, I was both empathetic and effective.
To prepare for postgraduate studies at the University of XXXX, I selected relevant courses for postgraduate students pursuing the M.A. in Comparative Public History at CUHK. I also took courses in Sociology, Government, and Public Administration, achieving 'A' grades in each and ranking in the top 5% of students. My exploration of various academic fields has enriched my knowledge and inspired me to think from diverse perspectives. My academic success demonstrates my ability to excel at XXXX in the interdisciplinary study of international relations.
While I cannot claim to be widely traveled, I am deeply interested in both Chinese and non-Chinese cultures. I look forward to experiencing British culture and studying and socializing with people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. In 2008, I participated in an exchange program run by the National Education Services Center of Hong Kong, studying in the Pearl River Delta and exploring economic interactions between Hong Kong and that part of mainland China. The significant changes in the region make me proud to be from Hong Kong and to contribute to Chinese identity and development.
I am excited to see China emerging from the era of constant class struggle to become a key player in the global economy. I have learned that anyone can be a source of valuable information. For example, a waiter or taxi driver sharing details about a brother's growing trucking business can offer insights more current than a six-month-old official report on local economic conditions.
I am aware that many other highly qualified applicants will apply for your scholarship program. However, I consider myself an exceptional candidate due to my maturity for my age and my clear, long-term goals for applying the knowledge and skills I hope to acquire at XXXX. I have an excellent academic record and a strong foundation in history, modern politics, sociology, government, and public administration, making me well-suited for the interdisciplinary study of International Relations, with a focus on Chinese issues and the globalizing economy that fosters collaboration among major players, notably China and the United States. Thank you for considering my application.
Fellowship International Relations Personal Statement Chinese






This statement offers a remarkably thoughtful, mature, and intellectually grounded portrait of someone whose academic choices and long‑term ambitions are shaped by genuine conviction rather than convention. What stands out immediately is the courage and clarity behind your decision to study History despite social pressure to pursue more “practical” fields. That choice alone signals a depth of curiosity and independence that strengthens your entire narrative.
Your identity as a Hong Kong Chinese adds a compelling dimension to your academic interests. You articulate with precision how Hong Kong’s unique position—as both part of China and a window to the world—has shaped your understanding of Chinese politics and international relations. This perspective is not only rare but deeply valuable, especially in a…